BMTC to introduce bus driving simulators

BANGLORE: In a bid to train and enhance skills of both newcomers and trained bus drivers the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is procuring motion based bus driving simulators. The similar technology was introduced by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) last year at its driving schools in Mandya district.

At present, BMTC has a fleet of over 6,400 buses in the city and it aims to train around 12,000 drivers in its workforce.

The aim of introducing simulators for training is to give drivers a virtual experience of driving in commercial and residential areas featuring schools, parks, zebra crossings, speed breakers, flyovers, and so on. The simulators will also help in giving drivers experience of traffic on Bengaluru roads which is one of the most concerned issue.

According to officials, the simulator will train drivers to avert accidents and teach them how to react to different situations like motorist occupying a part of the lane or a vehicle going at lower speed without rear lights or animals coming onto the road. It will also recreate virtual environment conditions like rain, fog, haze, sun glare, and cloud cover.

Anupam Agarwal, Director (security and vigilance), BMTC said, “The simulator will give a virtual experience of driving in an urban environment like Bengaluru. It will be used for both newcomers as well as drivers who are already employed by the corporation. It will help them enhance their skills in driving on different terrain, avoiding accidents, improving mileage, and others.”